While not addressing the issue of the sculpture directly, Ronaldo did speak of his delight at seeing his achievements recognised in his native Portugal.

He said: "Seeing my name being given to this airport is something very special, everyone knows that I am proud of my country and especially my home city.

"Thank you very much to the president of the regional government Miguel Albuquerque for having had the courage and the firmness to do it."

The 32-year-old later posted on Twitter: "Happy and honored to have my name given to the Madeira airport!"

The tribute has also been welcomed by Portugal’s president, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, with Ronaldo considered to be “an example of excellence [that] projects Madeira and Portugal across the world far more than anybody else."

Ronaldo is the current holder of the prestigious Ballon d’Or crown – a title has now claimed on four occasions – while his efforts in Madrid this season have delivered 26 goals to domestic and Champions League campaigns.